Academics

What are the benefits of the CHS program?

Our students will be exposed to college-level material and assessments, which will better prepare them to succeed after they graduate.

Our students can gain college credit for Phelps courses. Even when these credits do not transfer, the class will strengthen our students’ college applications.

The program will hopefully do a better job of addressing our students that require accommodations than the AP classes can since it does not require standardized testing.

The program comes at no cost to Phelps or its instructors, and our students only see an extra fee ($225) if they want the Pitt credits.

How does a student in a CHS class get college credit?

The class roster is sent to CHS and the student has the opportunity to register with the University of Pittsburgh (and pay the appropriate fee). If they register and then pass the class, the student will receive a University of Pittsburgh transcript with the class credit. That credit should transfer as easily as any other Pitt credit. 

How will the CHS program change the 2021-2022 school year?

We are piloting the program at Phelps with a single course (International Relations) that is not already offered. At minimum, this will expand the electives offered to juniors and seniors. If the class is successful and gets positive feedback from students, families, and faculty, we will consider adding more classes the following year. 

How does CHS relate to AP classes?

CHS is not intended to replace any AP classes at Phelps. CHS classes, however, may offer a more attractive option than AP for many of our students. Unlike AP classes where college credit is test based, CHS grants credits based on a passing grade in the approved class.

How does CHS approve Phelps classes?

CHS maintains a list of classes that they are willing to approve. The instructor of an eligible class applies by submitting their resume, copies of their transcripts, a letter of recommendation from the headmaster, and a class syllabus, which is then approved by CHS.

How does CHS handle accommodation requests?

If a student with accommodations is interested in a CHS class, we send the information to the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Disability Resources and Services (DRS). They will then make a determination and notify us and the student of their decision.

Will all students be capable of taking a CHS class at Phelps?

Just as with our existing Honors and AP classes, a CHS class may not be appropriate for every student, but we hope that most juniors, seniors, and postgrads will be able to take advantage of the program. For some students, they may be best served by taking an adjusted version of the class that does not qualify for CHS credit.